Geology

What Will I Learn?

Understand how Earth's history is reflected in landforms, strata and the fossil record.

Analyze physical processes that operate on and beneath Earth's surface.

Critically evaluate and analyze information.

Communicate scientific ideas and solutions effectively both in writing and verbally.

What Is The Occupational Outlook?

People with degrees in geology are usually employed as scientists by a wide variety of employers, including federal and state governments, higher education, oil companies, the waste management industry, and environmental consultants. The current outlook is that the demand for people with degrees in geology is strong especially in the areas hydrology and energy exploration. For more detailed information, including salary ranges, go to the U.S. Department of Labor web site U.S. Department of Labor Web site.

What Are My Options?

The associates degree with emphasis in geology is designed for students planning to complete the first two years of study leading to a baccalaureate degree and major in geology at a four-year college or university.

Course work from the Associate in Science degree may be transferred to a Bachelors degree granting institution. Starting your course work at Heartland Community College has several advantages:

Small class sizes: Small classes allow for more interaction between students and the instructor. At a large university, lecture sections can be as large as 500 students.

Lower costs: Tuition and fees are considerably less at Heartland Community College.

Being prepared for junior and senior level work: Students successfully completing course work at Heartland Community College are well prepared. After transferring, community college students perform slightly better than native students at their respective institutions, based on GPA data.